Okashira Senryu: A University Professor's Summer Vacation | Yoko Sato (Dean of the Faculty of Nursing and Medical Care)
2007.08.24
At the university in August, most students are in the middle of enjoying their long vacation. People often mistakenly assume that faculty members are also enjoying a long vacation just like the students, and sometimes enviously remark on what an elegant profession being a university professor must be. However, unfortunately, there is no such convenient arrangement where we can relax for two months while still receiving our salaries. In the case of the Faculty of Nursing and Medical Care, regular classes have already begun. The clinical practicum for second-year students started this week at Keio University Hospital. Furthermore, three overseas courses are offered during this period, where students receive guidance from local nurses and tour hospitals in the United States and the United Kingdom. Over 30 students and faculty members are training abroad. There are also faculty members who stay overnight near the training hospital to supervise midwifery practicums, even at night. Faculty members not involved in such practicum supervision during this period spend their time collecting and analyzing research data or writing manuscripts, trying to make effective use of this time when they have a relatively large block of free time. Once September begins, they will be busy preparing for the fall semester classes.
...While I emphasize how busy we are, this period is still a happy one for faculty members. It is a precious and welcome time when we can thoroughly read specialized books that we were concerned about but couldn't get to during the semester, and also compile our research results.
And yet, this summer is truly hot! I find myself sweating even in an air-conditioned environment.
...However, the extreme heat is not just a nuisance; it has its uses too. It can be used as an excuse when I'm behind on a deadline.
“The extreme heat / is the reason why my manuscript / makes no progress.”
(Posted: 2007/08/24)